John Stanko

"Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law,and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly" - Matthew 1:19.

As far as Joseph knew, Mary had violated their engagement covenant and broken their values as Jews. Joseph had to make a decision, but he was mindful of Mary, her family, and her feelings when he did. With all that to consider, he decided to divorce here with as little fanfare as possible. When leaders make decisions that involve people, they don't have to humiliate others to prove they are correct. This even pertains to interpersonal dealings that don't need to involve sarcasm, verbal harassment, or public ridicule or correction. Leaders' decisions affect people and their families, and they need to keep that in mind as they make them.

LEADERSHIP STEP: How well are you considering people as you make your decisions, especially about personnel? Today it's time to re-evaluate your termination policy to make sure it is as sensitive as possible to that traumatic experience for those being let go. Are you generous with your severance? Do you help those being released to find other work? Remember, you reap what you sow, so be merciful and God will be merciful to you if you are ever on the receiving end of a painful or difficult decision.